The global pandemic of COVID-19 has dramatically changed our way of living over the last several months. In states across the country, including Illinois, non-essential businesses were closed temporarily to curb the spread of the contagious virus. Many employees have been working remotely from home, so the roadways are not as congested as they normally would be with commuters going to and from work. However, even with less traffic, the state has seen an 11 percent increase in vehicle fatalities compared to the same time last year, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). After months quarantined at home, drivers may be unintentionally engaging in reckless behaviors behind the wheel. Speeding is one of the most common traffic violations and can include stiff penalties depending on the circumstances. Anyone who finds himself or herself facing such charges, it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced attorney to avoid fines, the loss of driving privileges, or even jail time.

Reasons for Traffic Citations

In Illinois, some restaurants and stores have opened back up, but with social-distancing and other restrictions. Many people who have been spending a lot of time at home may be eager to get out and eat at their favorite diner or shop at a local store in person. However, these motorists may not be used to driving and every traffic law. With significantly fewer numbers of cars on the road, it may be tempting to go faster. The newer cars of today typically have quiet engines, so drivers may not even realize they are going over the speed limit.

In some cases, drivers can also be distracted during these unprecedented times. For example, a person could be out of work and worried about money or concerned about an elderly family member who is sick. This can lead to inadvertently speeding to get to their destination faster, going through a stop sign, or failing to use a turn signal.

Penalties for Speeding Tickets

The punishments for speeding violations in Illinois vary depending on how many miles per hour mph) over the posted speed limit a driver was traveling. Illinois traffic law prohibits driving at a speed that is “greater than is reasonable and proper with regard to traffic conditions and the use of the highway or endangers the safety of any person or property.” In general, all motorists must drive at a safe speed, but it can depend on the circumstances, such as weather or time of day and night. Below are a few examples of the penalties for various speeding tickets in Illinois:

  • 1-20 mph over the speed limit: $120 fine
  • 21-25 mph over the speed limit: $140 fine
  • 26-34 mph over the speed limit: Class B misdemeanor; up to six months in jail and a maximum $1,500 fine
  • 35 mph or more over the speed limit: Class A misdemeanor; up to one year in jail and a possible fine of $2,500

It is important to note that speeding in school and construction zones carries harsher penalties. In a school zone, a violator can face a $150 fine for a first offense and $300 for a second or subsequent offense. Speeding in a construction zone carries at least a $250 fine for a first violation and $750 for a second or subsequent offense.

Scott’s Law mandates that all drivers slow down, move over, and proceed with caution when they approach emergency or maintenance vehicles that are stopped on the shoulder or side of the road with their flashing lights activated. This legislation is named in honor of Lt. Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department, who was struck and killed by a drunk driver when he was assisting at a vehicle crash site.

Contact a Woodstock Traffic Ticket Defense Lawyer

Illinois has fairly strict traffic laws in regard to speeding. These laws are put in place to ensure driver safety and prevent vehicle accidents with injuries. If you or someone you know is facing any type of traffic citation, it is important to seek professional legal counsel. At Prime Law Group, LLC, we understand the impact a traffic ticket can have on your record and driving privileges. Our skilled McHenry County traffic violations attorneys know how to negotiate with prosecutors and are prepared to go to trial to advocate on your behalf and protect your rights in a court of law. Call us today at 815-338-2040 to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can help you resolve your case as soon as possible.

Sources:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500070K30

https://www.nsc.org/in-the-newsroom/motor-vehicle-fatality-rates-jump-14-in-march-despite-quarantines

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-601.5

https://www.isp.state.il.us/docs/1-163.pdf


August 12, 2020